Bhutan was relatively isolated until the early 1950s and traditional Bhutan has changed more in the last 50 years than it has in the previous 400 years. It has sought to preserve its cultural identity in the face of modernization and increasing external influences. It is believed that ensuring protection and preservation of the unique culture would assist in protecting the sovereignty of the nation.

Dress: Gho & Kira
Bhutan's traditional dress is one of the most distinctive and visible aspects of the country. It is in fact compulsory for all Bhutanese to wear the national dress in schools, government offices and formal occasions. Men wear gho, a knee length robe tied at the waist by a cloth belt known as kera. It was introduced in the 17th century to give Bhutanese a more distinctive identity. A kabney is a silk scarf worn as part of the gho while visiting auspicious/important places, people and functions. The scarf comes in different colors depending on the rank of the bearer.